Classic and introgressed selective sweeps shape mimicry loci across a butterfly adaptive radiation

Abstract

Natural selection leaves distinct signatures in the genome that can reveal the targets and history of adaptive evolution. By analysing high-coverage genome sequence data from four major colour pattern loci sampled from nearly 600 individuals in 53 populations, we show pervasive selection on wing patterns across the Heliconius adaptive radiation. The strongest signatures correspond to loci with the greatest phenotypic effects, consistent with visual selection by predators, and are found in colour patterns with geographically restricted distributions. These recent sweeps are similar between co-mimics and indicate colour pattern turn-over events despite strong stabilizing selection. Using simulations we compare sweep signatures expected under classic hard sweeps with those resulting from adaptive introgression, an important aspect of mimicry evolution in Heliconius. Simulated recipient populations show a distinct volcano pattern with peaks of increased genetic diversity around the selected target, consistent with patterns found in some populations. Our genomic data provide unprecedented insights into the recent history of selection across the Heliconius adaptive radiation.